Abstract: The present invention comprises methods for detecting and controlling flame blowout in combustors. The blowout precursor detection system comprises a combustor, a blowout precursor detection unit, a pressure measuring device and/or an optical measuring device. The methods of the present invention comprise receiving optical data measured by an optical measuring device, performing one or a combination of raw data analysis, spectral analysis, statistical analysis, and wavelet analysis on received optical data, and determining the existence of a blowout precursor based on such analyses. The present invention further comprises closed-loop control methods for controlling a combustor to prevent blowout.

Abstract: A combustor assembly includes a combustor vessel having a wall, a proximate end defining an opening and a closed distal end opposite said proximate end. A manifold is carried by the proximate end. The manifold defines a combustion products exit. The combustion products exit being axially aligned with a portion of the closed distal end. A plurality of combustible reactant ports is carried by the manifold for directing combustible reactants into the combustion vessel from the region of the proximate end towards the closed distal end.

Abstract: A method for combusting a combustible fuel includes providing a vessel having an opening near a proximate end and a closed distal end defining a combustion chamber. A combustible reactants mixture is presented into the combustion chamber. The combustible reactants mixture is ignited creating a flame and combustion products. The closed end of the combustion chamber is utilized for directing combustion products toward the opening of the combustion chamber creating a reverse flow of combustion products within the combustion chamber. The reverse flow of combustion products is intermixed with combustible reactants mixture to maintain the flame.

Abstract: The present invention comprises methods for detecting and controlling flame blowout in combustors. The blowout precursor detection system comprises a combustor, a blowout precursor detection unit, a pressure measuring device and/or an optical measuring device. The methods of the present invention comprise receiving optical data measured by an optical measuring device, performing one or a combination of raw data analysis, spectral analysis, statistical analysis, and wavelet analysis on received optical data, and determining the existence of a blowout precursor based on such analyses. The present invention further comprises closed-loop control methods for controlling a combustor to prevent blowout.